Pakistan white-ball vice-captain Salman Agha has finally revealed the status of Syam Ayub’s injury during the recent series against South Africa. Salman feels Ayub can recover before the Champions Trophy as he will be an important part of the team’s plans.
Salman Agha also talked about his batting position in the team. Usually, he bats in the lower middle order across different formats, but he can bat at any position in the team.
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Salman Agha breaks silence on Saim Ayub injury
During the press conference, Salman Agha was asked about the injury situation of opener Syam Ayub. Taking into account the medical reports, Salman hoped Ayub would recover before the Champions Trophy.
“Considering Saim Ayub’s initial medical report, he will recover before the Champions Trophy. We all have to pray for his speedy recovery as we know how important he is to the Pakistan team. We hope he can be with us for the Champions League Trophy,” Salman said.
Salman Agha:
“Taking into account Saim Ayoub’s initial medical reports, he will recover ahead of the Champions Trophy.” pic.twitter.com/pHaf9FKjjr— Hassan Abbasian (@HassanAbbasian) January 10, 2025
How did Saim Ayub get injured?
Syed Ayub suffered an injury midway through the second Test between South Africa and Pakistan in Cape Town. In the seventh over of the match, South African batsman Ryan Rickelton had to be stretchered off the field after a ball passed through the cordon.
Ayub was chasing the ball at third base along with fast bowler Aamer Jamal. Jamal dropped the ball back and saved a boundary while Ayub stood there as the off fielder. However, he lost his balance and severely sprained his ankle.
He quickly lay down and clutched the lower part of his leg, feeling unbearable pain. Physiotherapists rushed to check on him and after a lengthy session outside the boundary he was taken off on a stretcher. He was in tears as he left the field and was later seen using crutches.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) immediately sent him to London for treatment along with assistant coach Azhar Mahmood. However, there are reports that Saim Ayoub will take some time to recover and may miss the championship trophy.
Salman Agha talks about his favorite batting position
Salman Agha was also asked about his favorite batting position in the team. The off-spin all-rounder claims that he has no problem batting anywhere in the lineup and is ready to bat wherever the team needs him.
“I have no problem batting in any position,” Salman Ali Agha said.
“I have no problem batting in any position.” – Salman Ali Agha. #CT25
— Arfa Feroz Zak (@ArfaSays_) January 10, 2025
Salman Agha has been one of Pakistan’s best players across formats in the past few months. He spent most of his time hitting the ball in the low post but was still able to put up an impressive performance.
There have been rumors that he will oppose the order, but whether he will be promoted remains to be seen. He recently scored 163 runs in three ODIs against South Africa, averaging 81.50 with a strike rate of 106.53, helping Pakistan sweep the hosts.